This description is based
primarily on
that given by Jenkins (2004) (B602.22.w22).

Note:only consider
nephrectomy if an intravenous excretory
pyelogram has
indicated adequate function of the contralateral kidney (J213.9.w2,
J513.6.w1) and
if an intravenous excretory pyelogram shows the damaged
kidney is non-functional; a partially functioning kidney may be
removed in certain cases, such as neoplasia. (V.w122)

Gently remove the caecum, colon and small intestines from the
abdomen to facilitate kidney exposure; wrap these in moistened gauze. (B602.22.w22)

ORpreferably retract the intestines to provide
access. This is more difficult to achieve but gives a lower risk of
post-operative adhesions than if the intestines are removed from the
abdomen. (V.w122)

Nephrectomy

Dissect the kidney free of its peritoneal attachments.

Rotate the kidney medially to expose the renal pelvis and proximal
ureter.

Using vascular clips, ligate the renal artery, vein and ureter.

Incise through the ureter and associated tissues distal to the
ligatures and remove the kidney.

When one kidney is severely diseased or damaged and the other kidney retains
sufficient normal function. (B602.22.w22)

Nephrectomy has been used successfully to treat rabbits with
hydronephrosis, unilateral nephrolithiasis or
pyelonephritis. (J213.9.w2)

For example, with renal calculi:

When a calculus has obstructed the renal pelvis causing
hydronephrosis and severe damage to the renal parenchyma. (B602.18.w18)

This may be considered if an intravenous excretory pyelogram has
indicated adequate function of the contralateral kidney. (J513.6.w1)
AND if an intravenous excretory pyelogram shows the damaged
kidney is non-functional; a partially functioning kidney may be
removed in certain cases, such as neoplasia. (V.w122)

Notes

--

Complications/ Limitations / Risk

Only consider nephrectomy if an intravenous excretory
pyelogram has
indicated adequate function of the contralateral kidney. (J213.9.w2,
J513.6.w1) AND
if an intravenous excretory pyelogram shows the damaged
kidney is non-functional; a partially functioning kidney may be
removed in certain cases, such as neoplasia. (V.w122)

Not suitable if the function of the other kidney is inadequate. (J513.6.w1)

Equipment / Chemicals required and Suppliers

Standard anaesthetic equipment for rabbits.

Surgical equipment appropriate for rabbits.

Suture materials.

Expertise level / Ease of Use

This procedure should only be
carried out by an individual with appropriate clinical training and practical
experience.

Cost/ Availability

The costs of a surgical operation include those associated with: (J15.30.w1)

Surgical preparation (of the operating theatre and the patient,
including staff time).

Consumables and equipment.

Time of the surgeon and assistant(s).

Post-operative hospitalisation.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

In some countries there may be
legislation restricting the use of this type of technique to licensed veterinarians. For
example in the UK: "The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 (Section 19) provides,
subject to a number of exceptions, that only registered members of the Royal College of
Veterinary Surgeons may practice veterinary surgery." (See: LCofC1
- RCVS Guide to Professional Conduct 2000 - Treatment of
Animals by Non-Veterinary Surgeons).